Many of the decisions we make are shaped by the opportunities we have access to. The path to adulthood and economic security is not straightforward. For our series, "Opportunity in America," teen journalists produced stories that explore dreams, expectations and the barriers teenagers must overcome to achieve their goals.

The stories examine the tough choices and personal struggles that members of Gen Z are facing on the path to success, and the support systems that aim to prepare the most diverse and interconnected generation of our time.

Young West Virginians wrestle with the decision to leave the state they love in search of economic security. The recent boom in natural gas pipeline construction is offering opportunities, but some are concerned the industry is only producing temporary jobs and further compounding the brain-drain of young, educated talent.

About Us:

PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs connect students with an innovative video journalism curriculum and a network of public broadcasting mentors to develop digital media, critical thinking and communication skills while producing original news reports from a youth perspective. Visit studentreportinglabs.org to learn more.

Support Provided By:

The American Graduate: Getting to Work initiative, public media’s long-term commitment, made possible by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to help young people succeed in school, career and life.

Major support is also provided by the MacArthur Foundation and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.